Magazine

Why Me and Not My Brother?

A year ago I received a phone call in the middle of the night to tell me my brother was dead. The police said they found his body and there needed to be an investigation. I knew no investigation was needed: it was alcoholism that did it. At the time, I had 17 years of sobriety. I was away on a business trip doing a job I love and was quickly surrounded by people who gave me lots of support.

Why? Why me? I thought. Why did I get the gift of sobriety, while my brother died a horrible alcoholic death in a filthy, rodent-infested apartment all alone? I believe the answer is that I go to meetings, I ask my Higher Power for help and I say thanks. I talk to my sponsor, I take calls from newcomers and I make time for sponsees.

-- Diane C.

Guelph, Ontario, Canada

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